The episode marks a major turning point in the Thriller Bark Arc. Initially, the Straw Hats were holding their own against Oars , but once Moria climbs into the "cockpit" in Oars’ stomach, the giant gains Moria's tactical brilliance.

: His body swells into a massive, blue-skinned powerhouse. He isn't just a brawler anymore; because one of the shadows belonged to a master swordsman, Luffy suddenly becomes an expert with a blade.

: This form is extremely powerful but has a strict 10-minute time limit before the shadows escape his body.

: Luffy is stuffed with 100 shadows . Most people would pass out or die after two or three, but Luffy’s legendary willpower allows him to hold all 100.

The episode ends with Nightmare Luffy sprinting toward the battlefield, setting the stage for one of the most unique and high-stakes showdowns in the series.

In , titled " The Secret Plan to Turn the Tables! Nightmare Luffy Makes His Appearance! " , the Straw Hat Pirates find themselves in a desperate fight against the giant zombie, Oars , who is being piloted from the inside by the Warlord Gekko Moria .

The climax of the episode is the transformation of Luffy into .

: This strategic upgrade proves devastating. The crew’s coordinated attacks are dismantled, and key members like Franky are knocked unconscious after a failed attempt to use a giant slingshot maneuver called "Kuwagata". The Forest Dwellers' Gift